Robert Alexander MILNE

ROBERT (ROB) ALEXANDER MILNE Robert (Rob) Alexander Milne passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 7, 2023, at the age of 71. Beloved husband and soulmate of Diane Milne (née Ogilvie). Loving father of Ben (Lilac) and Alex (Andreea). Proud grandfather of Myrtle, Mila and Baen. Son of the late Lamond Alexander Milne and late Claire Elizabeth Milne (née Lord). Dearest brother of David Richard Lamond, Barbara Elizabeth, and the late Duncan Harry. Cherished brother-in-law and uncle of too many to be named. A dear friend to countless people. Whether in business or in his personal life, Rob was an exceptional individual who took on all challenges, winning most, losing some, but never satisfied with living in the status quo. There were always new business opportunities and new adventures to experience. Rob approached them all with gusto. He never wanted to be the best, he just wanted to be his best. As a skilled raconteur, Rob held an audience captive with his unique ability to tell stories that were interesting and informative. He engaged easily with everyone he met. His warm smile and easy laugh will always be remembered and cherished. Rob was a distinguished entrepreneur. Where others saw risk, Rob saw opportunity in everything from global manufacturing to vegan restaurants. His were unique talents. He paid attention to detail, solved problems, and removed obstacles. He used his interpersonal skills to motivate and inspire success in others. One of the greatest joys of his life was having his sons as business partners, seeing them taking on and meeting some of the same challenges that he faced years ago. There was never a question of the pride he felt in his boys. No matter how busy Rob was with his many businesses, there was always time for family and community. Rob and Diane were married for 43 years. Their love and devotion helped them meet and overcome every challenge. With the arrival of children, Rob and Diane made it a point to participate in all their activities as they grew from infants into young men. Family vacations were always top priority, and their family travelled the world. Rob and Diane attended every family reunion and participated in virtually every important family event. For Rob, family was everything and he and Diane nurtured relationships with everyone. As Rob's businesses expanded into successful enterprises, Rob and Diane made it their mission to give back to society some of the rewards earned through their hard work. From supporting many charities to sponsoring families that immigrated to Canada from war torn countries, the Milnes were always generous. Rob was particularly proud of the contributions he made to Canadian society through the good fortune of the businesses he started and developed. Rob was passionate about sports, especially those that tested his skills and endurance. Winning was never as important as setting goals and then achieving or surpassing those goals. Being an outdoorsman, Rob particularly loved doing triathlons, climbing the Grouse Grind, biking from Vancouver to Whistler, skiing with the family and swimming laps. Rob enjoyed any sport that raised endorphin levels. He was also an avid golfer and took great pride in his game. Overcoming addiction in his younger years made Rob sympathetic to those who struggled with the same. He found purpose in the family he started with Diane and in his biggest career venture with his business partner of 35 years, Dave Shokar. Rob and Diane went on to support organizations that helped to humanize drug users, such as Pivot. Having come so far from the struggles of his early life attests that no one is beyond redemption. At the close of his life, when his seven-year battle with cancer proved to be the only challenge he could not overcome, Rob wrote his memoirs. For those who are close to him, it is a legacy to be treasured. Rob wanted to end life on his terms, so arrangements were made for a peaceful ending, and with his beloved family by his side, Rob passed away. A life lived in full. Rob Milne, you were a good man. Heartfelt thanks to Dr. Eitan Prisman, Dr. David Raben, Dr. Cheryl Ho, Dr. Eric Tran, and Dr. Angela Nguan. Thank you to the many other nurses and caregivers. The family is grateful for the compassionate care Rob received over the years. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Rob's memory may be made to PHS Community Services Society and Covenant House Vancouver. A celebration of Rob's life is planned for early 2024.